National hockey team faces hardships in Australia: PHF report to PSB reveals major lapses
National hockey team faces hardships in Australia: PHF report to PSB reveals major lapses
By Nawaz Gohar ; A detailed report submitted by the former Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) management to the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has surfaced, outlining the administrative and financial struggles faced by the national team during FIH Pro League Season 7.
According to the report, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) had scheduled Season 7 in four stages. The first stage was held in Argentina from December 9 to 14, 2025. Although the Prime Minister of Pakistan had approved 25 million PKR for the tournament and transferred the funds to the PSB, complications arose.
The PHF claims that instead of transferring the funds to the federation, the PSB decided to manage the affairs itself. However, delays in hotel bookings, air tickets, visa processing, and the timely payment of players’ TA/DA (Traveling/Daily Allowance) caused severe difficulties for the national side.
The report notes that due to late bookings for the Argentina leg, the team’s departure was delayed, the FIH-recommended hotel became unavailable, and visa issuance faced hurdles. Furthermore, players protested during the Islamabad training camp due to the non-payment of daily allowances.
The second stage was scheduled in Australia from February 2 to 15, 2026. The PHF stated that despite multiple reminders regarding Australian visas, hotel bookings, and tickets, the advance payment to the hotel was not made within the required timeframe.
The report reveals that $49,280 in cash was provided just two days before the team’s departure—well after the hotel’s payment deadline had expired. Upon arriving in Australia, the hotel refused to provide accommodation at the previously agreed rates, demanding double the price. Consequently, the team had to arrange alternative housing, and the team manager was forced to make local payment arrangements through personal efforts.
The former PHF management maintains that while funds for visa fees, tickets, and allowances were available with the PSB, the failure to transfer them on time created this crisis. The report includes the complete schedule for all four stages (Argentina, Australia, Belgium, and London) and a chronological record of correspondence with the PSB.
Regardless of who is at fault, this entire situation has brought disrepute to Pakistan. The national team’s struggles with basic accommodation and payments on the international stage have not only embarrassed the players but also damaged the country’s global image.
